Keraia
1 Samuel 4

1 Samuel 4:6

The Philistines Capture the Ark · 1 Samuel 4:1–11
Read 1 Samuel 4

Translations

Modern
On hearing the noise of the shout, the Philistines asked, “What is this loud shouting in the camp of the Hebrews?” And when they realized that the ark of the LORD had entered the camp,
Traditional
And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, What meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the Lord was come into the camp.
Literal
And the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, and they said, “What is the sound of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews?” And they understood that the ark of YHWH had come into the camp.
Latin
Et audierunt Philisthiim vocem clamoris, dixeruntque: Quænam est hæc vox clamoris magni in castris Hebræorum? Et cognoverunt quod arca Domini venisset in castra.

Original

Hebrew
English
On hearing the noise of the shout, the Philistines asked, “What is this loud shouting in the camp of the Hebrews?” And when they realized that the ark of the LORD had entered the camp,

Notes

1 Samuel 4:6–7

Like the Israelites, the Philistines saw the ark as a powerful charm (see 1 Samuel 4:2–3). They believed it would lead to their defeat in battle.

1 Samuel 4:1–7:2

The crisis with the ark of the covenant showed Israel needed Samuel's leadership. It also fulfilled prophecies about Eli and his sons (1 Samuel 3:11–14).

People

Hebrews: An ethnic group descended from Abraham

Places

Philistia: An ancient people and region in Canaan

Glossary

Ark of the Covenant Ashkelon Ebenezer Ephraim (Place) Samuel (Person) Samuel, Books of First and Second Saul Shiloh

Topics

Aphek: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Philistines Defeat Israelites At Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Taken to Battle Armies: March in Ranks: Ark Taken to Battle Israel: A Name Given to the Descendants of Jacob, a Nation: Etc Philistines: Defeat the Israelites The Philistines: Defeated Israel and Took the Ark